A thorough teeth cleaning is recommended every six months; however, there are circumstances where a different time table may be needed to safeguard dental health.
What Occurs During the Teeth Cleaning Appointment?
Health Review – You will be asked about changes in your health or medications since your previous visit. These questions may seem like they don’t apply to your dental health, but changes in your overall health can factor into your oral condition.
Dental X-rays – Once per year bitewing x-rays are taken to check for decay, hairline cracks, and any abnormalities that may appear. Every three to five years, a full set of x-rays are taken to help manage dental health.
Cleaning – Your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque that has formed on teeth since your previous visit. Topical stain is removed. Teeth will be flossed.
Polishing – Teeth are polished to look their best.
Dental Exam – Your dentist will be looking for any signs of oral cancer; any unusual lesions or signs of trouble will be followed by further testing. During this exam, your dentist is also checking for decay and signs of gum disease.
Do I Really Need To Do This Every Six Months?
Absolutely! Your teeth play a prominent role in your day to day life; when they are healthy, you don’t really think about how important they are. But tooth pain, gum disease, or missing teeth can make your life miserable. And that cleaning appointment usually takes one hour or less if you maintain a schedule of dental visits every six months.
Patients who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease may require more frequent dental visits to help maintain dental health.
In between dental visits, there are many things you can do to help keep teeth and gums healthy:
Brush twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste.
Floss every day to remove what your toothbrush missed between teeth and around the gum line.
Do not use tobacco in any form.
Eat a healthy diet comprised primarily of fruits, vegetables, dairy, proteins, and healthy grains. Avoid soda (regular and diet) and sugary beverages. The optimum healthy beverage is water.
We rely on our teeth for chewing, speaking clearly, and smiling confidently; visiting our team at Fresh Dental a couple of times a year will help maintain oral health.
